EHIC - the European Health Insurance Card (the old E111 card)

The free EHIC card enables you to access reduced-cost, sometimes free, state-provided healthcare that becomes necessary during your trip because of either illness or an accident. It also covers you for pre-existing conditions. But if the locals pay towards healthcare, you too will have to stump up the cost. You can find full details of the cover and who is eligible on the NHS Choices website.

You should also remember that the EHIC usually only covers treatment in state-run hospitals - and in some countries the standard of state hospitals is poor. You will also have to pay any repatriation costs as the card does not include the cost of a flight home if you fall ill or have an accident while on holiday. Don’t be fooled by anyone trying to charge you for the EHIC card as it's free and there are no admin fees or postage costs. You can apply by calling the EHIC application line on 0845 606 2030 or online.

The quickest way to secure one, however, is online. To apply free, visit www.nhs.uk/healthcareabroad. Don't fear a tax-return-style encounter; you need little more than name, address and NHS number.

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insurefor.com is a trading style of ROCK Insurance Services Limited who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 300317).
Policies are underwritten by SOLID Forsakringar.